The Birth Of Ally Brazil

10 December 1958

the keeper

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The Birth Alastair James Brazil, Wed 10 Dec 1958

BRAZIL SET FOR HIS 200TH GAME

Whole-hearted defender Ally Brazil was due to play his 200th game for Hibs tonight. The 24-year-old player from Currie, Midlothian, was spotted by talent scout John Smart playing for local side Currie Hearts and after two trial games was signed by former Hibs manager Eddie Turnbull in 1976. Brazil jumped at the chance to link-up with Hibs and has never regretted the decision. Ally recalls it took around a season to break through into the first team in which present manager Pat Stanton, and his current assistant John Blackley, plus Arthur Duncan were playing. “Everyone at Easter Road helped me in the early stages,” he said, “and there are a great bunch of lads at the club.” Looking back, the versatile player said his biggest thrill was appearing in the 1979 Scottish Cup final. he final also brought Ally his biggest disappointment for Hibs lost after three games to Rangers. Keeping free of injuries is a top priority but Ally’s big ambition in soccer is to win a cup playing for Hibs. Like all the staff at Easter Road he hopes to help the club into Europe this year, and Ally is looking forward to tonight’s game. “It’s great playing against the top teams and we always
have a good tussle with Celtic.” Ally is married — his wife’s name is Linda — and the couple have a child called Leanne. Hobbies include golf, and Ally has picked up trophies playing in recent local competitions.